From NPR · · 1m
Jessie Diggins conquers 100 mile trail race
The retired Olympic cross-country skier takes on ultrarunning and wins her first hundred-miler.
In brief
The retired Olympic cross-country skier takes on ultrarunning and wins her first hundred-miler. Elite athletes can successfully transition to completely different endurance sports and compete at the highest level. Originally reported by NPR.
Olympic legend tries ultrarunning
Jessie Diggins, retired Olympic cross-country skiing superstar, entered her first-ever 100 mile trail race in September 2026.
From skis to trail running
After retiring from Olympic competition, Diggins transitioned from cross-country skiing to ultrarunning, testing her endurance in a completely new sport.
She wins on her first try
Diggins didn't just finish the 100 mile race, she won it, proving her elite athletic abilities transfer across different endurance disciplines.
Endurance translates across sports
Her victory demonstrates that the mental toughness and physical conditioning developed in one sport can provide a foundation for success in another.
New chapter for Diggins
The achievement marks a significant milestone in Diggins' post-Olympic career, opening possibilities for continued competition in ultrarunning.
The big picture
Elite athletes can successfully transition to completely different endurance sports and compete at the highest level.
